James W. Cook Jr, 77, of Taylorville, passed away on Sunday, November 19, 2023 at St. John's Hospital in Springfield, IL., James was born on September 4, 1946, in Springfield, the son of James W. Cook Sr. and Frances (Lee) Cook. James served his country in the United States Air Force from 1965-1969.

James was an avid reader and enjoyed reading western novels. He also enjoyed playing board games and chatting with his fellow residents at Rolling Meadows Senior Living in Taylorville.

He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Bob and Randy Cook; daughter, Patricia Cook Tucker; and son, James "Jimmy" Cook III.

He is survived by his daughter, Rebecca Cook; two step sons, Andy and Corey Shanks; grandchildren, Clarissa Bryant, Jace Mollet, Alicia (Casey) Gold, Stephanie Rackley and Brandon (Rebecka) Boyd; great grandchildren, Lillian Rackley, Kiana Henley, Colton Gold and Autumn, Brandon and Cody Boyd; one sister, Carolyn Koke, and special niece Tracey Ridgeway and nephew Bob Williams.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 25, 2023 from 10:00AM until the time of the funeral service at 11:00AM at Wilson Park Funeral Home, 200 E. Main St. in Rochester. Burial will follow at Mechanicsburg Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the Land of Lincoln Honor Flight.

Wilson Park Funeral Home in Rochester is in charge of arrangements.